Global Pulse

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  • Chaos erupts in Somalia’s parliament over proposed constitutional amendments

    Chaos erupts in Somalia’s parliament over proposed constitutional amendments

    MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s parliamentary proceedings descended into unprecedented turmoil on Wednesday as physical altercations and vocal protests forced the abrupt suspension of a joint legislative session. The disruption occurred when Speaker Adan Madobe unexpectedly introduced proposals to amend five chapters of the nation’s provisional constitution, triggering immediate opposition from lawmakers who alleged the changes would illegally extend parliamentary mandates.

    The contentious session witnessed extraordinary scenes of disorder as opposition parliamentarians tore up agenda documents, shouted slogans, and blew whistles to drown out proceedings. Social media footage captured Internal Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail, a supporter of the amendments, physically confronting opposition lawmaker Hassan Yare, though the exact catalyst for the altercation remained unclear.

    Opposition legislator Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsameh accused Speaker Madobe of attempting to bypass established parliamentary procedures to rush through the amendments, which critics claim would grant a two-year extension to the current parliament’s term set to expire in April, with the presidential term concluding the following month.

    Faced with mounting chaos, Madobe adjourned the session indefinitely while threatening disciplinary action against those responsible for the disruptions. The speaker did not immediately respond to requests for clarification regarding the proposed amendments or when deliberations might resume.

    This political crisis echoes similar constitutional tensions from 2021 under former president Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, whose attempt to extend political mandates sparked armed confrontations in Mogadishu and pushed the nation toward widespread unrest. Somalia has operated under a provisional constitution since 2012, with repeated efforts to finalize the document exposing profound divisions between the federal government and regional states over power-sharing and governance structures.

  • Deutsche Bank offices raided in money laundering probe

    Deutsche Bank offices raided in money laundering probe

    German law enforcement authorities conducted simultaneous raids on Deutsche Bank’s Frankfurt and Berlin offices Wednesday as part of an expanding money laundering investigation targeting Germany’s largest financial institution.

    The Office of the Federal Prosecutor confirmed the operation, stating the investigation involves “unknown individuals and employees” at Deutsche Bank who allegedly maintained business relationships with foreign companies suspected of money laundering activities. The coordinated operation included personnel from the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA).

    While Deutsche Bank officials acknowledged the searches had occurred, both the bank and prosecutors remained tight-lipped about specific details regarding the individuals or foreign entities under scrutiny. The prosecutor’s office explicitly stated it could not disclose “background of the business relationships, the transactions processed through Deutsche Bank AG, their scope, or the companies themselves.”

    German media outlets have reported potential connections to sanctioned Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, whose legal representatives vehemently denied any awareness of German investigations. “Mr. Abramovich has always acted in accordance with applicable domestic and international laws and regulations,” stated his legal team, adding that “any suggestion to the contrary is false and defamatory.”

    The timing proves particularly sensitive for Deutsche Bank, which is scheduled to release its full-year financial results Thursday. Market reaction was immediately negative, with shares closing nearly 2% lower following news of the investigations.

    This represents not the first but the second major money laundering probe targeting Deutsche Bank in recent years. In 2018, approximately 170 police officers and officials raided the bank’s Frankfurt headquarters and five additional city locations investigating whether staff facilitated offshore accounts for transferring illicit funds between 2013-2018.

    The current investigation emerges against the backdrop of increased Western scrutiny on Russian oligarchs following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Abramovich, who accumulated wealth through oil and gas ventures, faced sanctions from both the UK government and European Union in March 2022 over alleged ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin—connections he consistently denies.

  • AVENEW Development and Hilton announce Waldorf Astoria Dubai Islands and Waldorf Astoria Residences Dubai Islands

    AVENEW Development and Hilton announce Waldorf Astoria Dubai Islands and Waldorf Astoria Residences Dubai Islands

    In a strategic expansion within Dubai’s luxury real estate sector, local developer AVENEW Development has entered into a significant agreement with global hospitality leader Hilton to establish the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Islands and Waldorf Astoria Residences Dubai Islands. This collaboration introduces the iconic luxury brand to one of Dubai’s most anticipated coastal developments, marking a pivotal moment in the city’s premium hospitality landscape.

    The development will feature 150 meticulously designed guest rooms and suites alongside 120 branded residential units, creating a seamless blend of luxury accommodation and permanent living spaces. The hotel component will offer multiple dining experiences including a rooftop restaurant, all-day dining venue, specialty restaurant, signature bar, and the renowned Peacock Alley. Comprehensive lifestyle amenities will include outdoor pools, dedicated children’s facilities, fitness studio, and a luxury spa.

    This project represents AVENEW Development’s sixth venture within the master-planned waterfront community and its second branded residence on Dubai Islands. The initiative capitalizes on Dubai’s established global leadership in luxury hospitality and the growing demand for premium branded residences, which have evolved from a niche market into a leading global asset class.

    Rasha Hassan, Managing Partner of AVENEW Development, emphasized the strategic nature of the collaboration: ‘This partnership responds directly to evolving global wealth patterns and sophisticated buyer expectations. These residences represent best-in-class homes designed to deliver enduring value through globally recognized service standards.’

    Carlos Khneisser, Hilton’s Chief Development Officer for Middle East & Africa, noted: ‘Waldorf Astoria consistently sets luxury benchmarks in the world’s most desirable destinations. We’re excited to collaborate with AVENEW Development to bring this iconic property to Dubai Islands, expanding our luxury portfolio across the region.’

    The development exemplifies AVENEW’s commitment to creating celebrated living spaces that combine architectural excellence with functional elegance, designed for those seeking timeless sophistication and unmatched service reflective of Waldorf Astoria’s storied heritage.

  • Between wetlands and worlds: The story of a Bangladeshi student in China

    Between wetlands and worlds: The story of a Bangladeshi student in China

    Faysal Ahmad, a Bangladeshi PhD candidate at Beijing Forestry University’s School of Ecology and Nature Conservation, has transformed his childhood fascination with migratory birds into a transnational conservation mission. His journey from the wetlands of Bangladesh to China’s ecological research forefront represents a growing trend of global environmental collaboration.

    Growing up alongside Bangladesh’s vibrant wetland ecosystems, Ahmad developed an early understanding of nature’s interconnectedness through observing seasonal bird migrations. This childhood curiosity evolved into professional commitment through his work with conservation organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, where he witnessed firsthand how climate change disrupts both ecosystems and human communities.

    ‘Conservation remains incomplete without considering human dimensions,’ Ahmad emphasized. ‘Science must ultimately serve those most affected by environmental changes.’

    This philosophy led him to China, where he found resonance with the country’s ecological civilization concept. Beijing Forestry University emerged as the ideal institution due to its renowned biodiversity research programs and practical approach to ecological challenges. Under Professor Liu Jinglan’s mentorship, Ahmad’s research focuses on climate change impacts on waterbird species in Beijing’s urban wetlands.

    A pivotal moment in his academic journey occurred during field training when handling migratory birds. ‘Holding that bird, I understood that nature recognizes no borders,’ he recalled. ‘Birds migrate with purpose, not passports.’ This realization fundamentally shifted his research approach from pure data collection to developing holistic ecological narratives that connect climate patterns, habitat changes, and human activity.

    His academic experience expanded through international research visits to nine countries, including ecological studies in Inner Mongolia’s grasslands, seminars at Harvard University, and coastal research in the Netherlands. These diverse experiences reinforced his belief that conservation knowledge must transcend boundaries as freely as migratory birds.

    Beyond research, Ahmad actively engages in knowledge dissemination through the ‘Eco Earth’ Lecture Group and leadership roles in the East Asian–Australasian Flyway Partnership Youth Task Force. His outreach extends to primary school education, where he organizes birdwatching activities and drawing sessions to inspire younger generations.

    ‘China demonstrated that ecological strength emerges when society embraces environmental values,’ Ahmad noted. ‘Meaningful change occurs when science, policy, and public participation align.’

    Looking forward, Ahmad aims to establish collaborative platforms between China and South Asia, transferring ecological wisdom and practical solutions for wetland protection and climate resilience. His journey exemplifies how personal passion, when coupled with academic opportunity and cross-cultural exchange, can address global environmental challenges through localized action and international cooperation.

  • Nipah virus outbreak in India: Singapore to set up temperature screening at airport

    Nipah virus outbreak in India: Singapore to set up temperature screening at airport

    Singapore has activated enhanced health security protocols in response to the emerging Nipah virus outbreak in India’s West Bengal region. The nation’s Communicable Diseases Agency announced on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the implementation of temperature screening measures specifically for arriving passengers on flights originating from affected areas.

    The comprehensive response extends beyond airport controls. The Ministry of Manpower is intensifying surveillance protocols for newly arrived migrant workers from South Asia, while simultaneously engaging primary healthcare providers to maintain heightened clinical vigilance for potential cases.

    In a strategic move to bolster international cooperation, Singaporean health authorities are actively collaborating with their counterparts across South Asian nations to gain deeper insights into the epidemiological situation. Concurrently, work is underway to establish a global digital platform that would enable countries to rapidly share genomic sequencing data of detected cases, facilitating faster response and research coordination.

    The Nipah virus, recognized for its significant mortality rate and transmission potential, has prompted this multilayered approach to public health protection. These precautionary measures reflect Singapore’s proactive stance in mitigating cross-border health threats while maintaining essential international travel connections.

  • Minneapolis activists track Trump’s immigration enforcers

    Minneapolis activists track Trump’s immigration enforcers

    In a high-stakes digital surveillance operation, Minneapolis-based activists have mobilized sophisticated technology to monitor the movements of federal immigration enforcement agents deployed throughout the city. Utilizing encrypted messaging applications and real-time mapping software, these civilian observers—many with military backgrounds—are conducting around-the-clock monitoring of approximately 3,000 federal officers operating under President Trump’s intensified immigration crackdown.

    The volunteer network, organized through neighborhood-specific groups on the encrypted Signal platform, operates as a decentralized intelligence-gathering system. When suspicious vehicles or potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity is reported, the network springs into action with verified sightings and coordinated response teams.

    Chelsea Kane, a 37-year-old software engineer and military veteran, coordinates one such monitoring team from her electric SUV. “For me, it’s just what you do. You protect your community,” stated Kane, who accuses federal authorities of racial profiling practices. Alongside her rides Carrie Thompson, a 45-year-old mother of two who asserts, “Just because you have brown skin doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be here.”

    The operation has documented numerous concerning incidents since its inception, including the shooting of an undocumented Venezuelan man, detention of a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy, and fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens that administration officials initially characterized as domestic terrorists until witness footage contradicted these claims.

    Despite Trump’s partial withdrawal of Border Protection personnel following public outcry, activists maintain the reduction is merely cosmetic. “They’re not taking a significant amount of agents off the streets,” Kane emphasized, noting that the monitoring operation continues indefinitely as federal presence persists in Minnesota communities.

    The Trump administration has labeled these observers as criminals obstructing law enforcement, while the FBI has acknowledged reviewing the activists’ Signal communications. The volunteers maintain they merely document encounters to ensure accountability, with Kane stating: “All we’re doing is recording so that if something happens it’s documented.”

  • Dubai extends its lead as global capital of branded residences

    Dubai extends its lead as global capital of branded residences

    Dubai has significantly strengthened its position as the world’s premier destination for branded luxury residences, according to the latest analysis from property consultancy Savills. The emirate’s remarkable expansion in this exclusive real estate sector demonstrates its growing appeal among international high-net-worth investors seeking both luxury living and strategic financial opportunities.

    By the conclusion of 2025, Dubai recorded 64 completed branded residential projects with an additional 87 developments actively progressing through the pipeline. This substantial growth contributed to the global portfolio of branded schemes reaching approximately 910 properties worldwide, representing a robust 19 percent year-on-year increase. The past year alone witnessed more than 220 new projects entering development phases across global markets.

    The Middle East and North Africa region has emerged as the fastest-growing market for branded residences globally, achieving an extraordinary 187 percent expansion over the past five years. This remarkable growth trajectory has been primarily driven by ambitious development initiatives throughout Dubai and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

    In the global hierarchy of branded residential markets, Dubai maintains its leadership position, followed distantly by South Florida with 48 completed projects and 55 in development. New York secured third position with 32 operational schemes and four additional projects underway. Other notable markets include Miami, São Paulo, London, Cairo, Istanbul, Bangkok, Fort Lauderdale, Phuket, and Mexico City.

    Andrew Cummings, Head of Residential Agency at Savills Middle East, emphasized Dubai’s unique advantages: “The city’s continued appeal as a global lifestyle and investment destination places it firmly at the center of branded residential growth. International buyers are consistently drawn by Dubai’s exceptional connectivity, capital security, and diverse luxury product offerings.”

    The report highlights several key factors driving Dubai’s dominance, including its favorable tax environment, political stability, and sophisticated infrastructure supporting private aviation and international connectivity. Emerging destinations within the UAE, particularly Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi, are gaining significant momentum as developers seek to diversify beyond core urban markets.

    Industry projections indicate continued exponential growth, with real estate expert Valentina Rusu forecasting an 80 percent increase in Dubai’s branded residences portfolio, potentially reaching 250 projects by 2030. Recent major developments include Binghatti’s multi-billion dollar Mercedes-Benz Places complex and new JW Marriott Residences, adding thousands of luxury units to the market.

    The evolution of branded residences represents more than mere luxury accommodation—these developments offer comprehensive lifestyle investments where purchasers acquire not just properties but curated living experiences backed by globally recognized hospitality and luxury brands.

  • China’s 5G base stations top 4.83 million by end of 2025

    China’s 5G base stations top 4.83 million by end of 2025

    China’s telecommunications sector demonstrated remarkable growth throughout 2025, exceeding all infrastructure development targets established in its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). Official data released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology reveals the country achieved unprecedented milestones in next-generation network deployment and technological innovation.

    By December 2025, China had established 4.838 million operational 5G base stations nationwide, translating to an impressive density of 34.4 stations per 10,000 people. This infrastructure deployment surpassed national planning objectives by 8.4 units per capita, representing one of the most rapid large-scale 5G implementations globally.

    The telecommunications industry reported sustained financial growth with total business volume increasing 9.1% year-on-year. Revenue reached 1.75 trillion yuan (approximately $250.8 billion), marking a 0.7% increase despite global economic headwinds. Emerging technologies including cloud computing, big data, IoT applications, and data center services contributed significantly, accounting for 25.7% of total sector revenue.

    China’s technological leadership became particularly evident in patent development, with Chinese entities claiming 42% of all global 5G standard-essential patent declarations. Concurrently, researchers achieved substantial breakthroughs in next-generation connectivity, successfully verifying core 6G system architecture and related technologies.

    Infrastructure accomplishments extended to comprehensive network coverage with gigabit optical network access available in every Chinese county. The nation achieved complete 5G coverage across all townships and over 95% of administrative villages. Advanced 5G-A (5G-Advanced) services expanded to more than 330 cities, while the national optical fiber network reached 74.99 million kilometers in total length.

    User adoption metrics showed robust growth with mobile subscriptions reaching 1.827 billion, including 1.204 billion 5G subscribers. Mobile IoT terminals experienced particularly strong expansion, growing 8.7% to 2.888 billion users, with substantial increases in vehicular internet and public service applications.

    The integration of digital technologies with traditional industries reached new heights, with 5G and gigabit networks now implemented across 91 major economic categories. The industrial internet ecosystem achieved comprehensive coverage of all 41 industrial classifications, demonstrating deep digital transformation throughout China’s economic landscape.

  • Central Cee live in Dubai: All you need to know about the British rapper’s upcoming concert

    Central Cee live in Dubai: All you need to know about the British rapper’s upcoming concert

    British rap phenomenon Central Cee is poised to make his highly anticipated return to Dubai with an electrifying open-air performance at Bohemia Beach Club, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, on Friday, January 30, 2026. The chart-topping artist will bring his distinctive fusion of Hip-Hop and R&B to one of Dubai’s most prestigious waterfront venues, marking a spectacular start to the year’s entertainment calendar.

    Having ascended from London’s underground music scene to international stardom through viral street anthems and global hits, Central Cee has established himself as a dominant force on festival circuits worldwide. His Dubai appearance offers fans an intimate opportunity to experience his musical artistry beneath the stars along Palm Jumeirah’s iconic shoreline.

    The concert venue, Bohemia Beach Club, has built a reputation for hosting Dubai’s most memorable live music events, providing an ideal backdrop for Central Cee’s beachfront musical takeover. Event organizers have structured ticketing options to accommodate varying fan preferences:

    – General Dance Floor Access: AED 300
    – VIP Experience: Starting from AED 600 (fully redeemable)
    – Backstage Dancing VIP: AED 800, inclusive of 8 premium beverages

    With limited VIP and backstage packages available, early reservation is strongly advised to secure premium viewing positions.

    Audience members can anticipate a high-energy performance featuring Central Cee’s signature sharp lyricism and melodic hooks, including crowd favorites such as ‘Doja,’ ‘Sprinter,’ ‘LET Go,’ ‘Commitment Issues,’ and numerous other hits from his expanding discography. Whether attending as a dedicated longtime follower or experiencing Central Cee’s dynamic stage presence for the first time, this beachfront concert promises to deliver an unforgettable conclusion to January 2026’s entertainment offerings.

    The event forms part of Dubai’s growing calendar of international music performances, reinforcing the city’s emerging status as a premier destination for global touring artists.

  • Panic on crowded train – passenger tells BBC of moment of Russian drone strike

    Panic on crowded train – passenger tells BBC of moment of Russian drone strike

    A Ukrainian military officer from the 93rd Brigade, identified by his call-sign Omar, has provided a harrowing firsthand account of the immediate rescue efforts following a Russian drone strike on a civilian passenger train in northeastern Ukraine. The attack, which President Zelensky condemned as an act of terrorism, resulted in five fatalities but could have claimed significantly more lives without Omar’s decisive intervention.

    Omar, a drone unit commander who happened to be traveling on the Chop-to-Barvinkove route, described the sequence of events that began when the first of three Russian drones struck near the train, forcing an emergency halt. Moments later, another explosion rocked the carriage as a second drone found its mark. Recognizing the tactical pattern of a drone operator observing and adjusting strikes, Omar immediately instructed panicked passengers to evacuate before the targeted carriage erupted in flames.

    The military officer’s trained response proved critical as 291 passengers faced the rapidly developing crisis. After ensuring the initial evacuation, Omar returned to the smoldering wreckage with other volunteers to search for survivors, discovering five casualties in the process. His most poignant encounter was with a terrified young mother clutching her infant, who revealed she was traveling to the front lines so her soldier husband could meet their child for the first time.

    This attack represents an escalation in targeting Ukraine’s extensive railway network, a critical infrastructure system that has become a symbol of national resilience since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Despite previous attacks on rail infrastructure, Ukraine’s rail company Ukrzaliznytsia has maintained remarkable operational continuity across its 21,000-kilometer network, though increasing attacks and severe weather have caused growing delays.

    In response to the attack, railway stations across Ukraine flew flags at half-mast, and the nation’s daily moment of silence was dedicated to the victims. Demonstrating the system’s resilience, service on the Barvinkove-Chop line resumed within hours of the attack, even as the incident highlighted the increasing vulnerability of civilian transportation networks in the conflict.